From the category archives:

Life Planning

Reverse Mortgages Part Two: What Are The Advantages?

March 3, 2010

photo credit: Maxwell GS
When Donald Franklin became a widower he wasn’t prepared for the financial consequences. He and his wife Wilma had become accustomed to both of their pensions and both of their social security incomes. However, his survivor benefits paid him only half of her pension and none of her social [...]

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People Are Begging for Financial Help. Five Things You Can Do

March 1, 2010

photo credit: vtdainfo
The Recession is having some positive spin offs.
A report from Mintel Comperemedia revealed that, because of the current economic crises, three in four adults are trying to increase their financial know how.
Susan Menke, VP at Mintel Compermedia, comments: “The recession was a wake-up call for many Americans. They now feel [...]

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When Does Saving Turn To Hoarding?

February 26, 2010

photo credit: tallkev
The bible clearly states that saving is a good thing (Prov 21:20) and that hoarding is not (Luke 12:20-21). But is there a clear distinction between the two? And how can we know if we have crossed the line?
This post will first examine the spiritual aspect of hoarding, then give [...]

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Should You Leave an Inheritance to Your Children?

February 19, 2010

photo credit: quinn.anya
The late Larry Burkett wrote, “If I had to identify the area of Christian finances that is least understood, it would be inheritance. Not only do people wreck their lives by hoarding, but they also wreck the lives of their children and grandchildren with abundant inheritance.”
I have to admit that Burkett [...]

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Lessons Irvin Taught Us on Driving, Finances and Life

February 17, 2010

photo credit: Jesus Vivas
Irvin Smith was more than a father-in-law to me. I would like to believe that I was more than a son-in-law to him.
He lived an unpretentious life: a “real” Christian man who demonstrated his faith instead of preaching it. Irvin was utterly devoted to his wife and to his [...]

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Unemployed? Are You Rocking or Are You Rolling?

January 25, 2010

photo credit: jessica flavin
Losing your job is more than just losing a source of income.
It often brings on a loss of self esteem, especially with men, who too often equate work with identity.  Extended periods of unemployment can bring on shame, hopelessness and depression.

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Is Your Money an Idol? Think Twice Before Answering.

January 22, 2010

photo credit: Itinerant Tightwad
1Co 10:14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
Surely Not Me
Paul was writing to a culture where people worshipped wood and stone statues. Of course the statues weren’t innately evil, but believing they had power to do only what God can do (good weather, good crops, give children, etc.) [...]

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My Love File: 14 Critical Items

January 11, 2010

photo credit: aWee
Dave Ramsey calls it a Love File, and, because I can’t think of a better name, I do too. What am I talking about?
Ask yourself this question, “If I was to die unexpectedly, would my spouse know where to find the important documents she would need?”

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Don’t Make New Year’s Resolutions; Fulfill Your Dreams Instead

January 1, 2010

photo credit: César Rincón
The very word “resolution” implies effort, work and resolve. Making one is a dreary prospect…we grit our teeth and summon up our determination, but deep inside we know that it probably won’t last. Then we console ourselves with the knowledge that at least we tried.
This year why not try [...]

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How Do You Measure Success?

December 30, 2009

Last fall, at a class reunion in Palm Springs, CA, 39 year old Steven Burton wore dress Navy attire displaying the Navy Cross, the highest medal that can be awarded by the United States Department of the Navy. This award is given for “extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed [...]

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How to Purchase Long Term Care Insurance: Ten Great Tips

December 21, 2009

Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) is for anyone who has assets they want to protect should extended nursing care occur. Therefore, unless you are very, very wealthy or have few assets, Long Term Care Insurance is something you should consider.
When I say very, very wealthy, I am talking about anyone who can handle $1 million [...]

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What to do With $60,000

November 26, 2009

photo credit: h.koppdelaney
A reader asked me the following question:
“My parents, in their late 70’s, have no financial needs and a substantial emergency fund. In addition to the emergency savings, they also have $60,000 in a passbook savings account which they don’t know what to do with. They are not interested in taking much risk, [...]

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